Max Verstappen has described the recent rumours suggesting that there’s an internal power struggle developing at Red Bull as “BS”.
Earlier this week, one report in the German media suggested that the position of Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko was under review by the company’s hierarchy.
The information cited that a summit was due to be held and Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner was one individual who was pushing for Marko to be axed from his role.
However, both Horner and Marko swiftly denied the speculation, with the latter insisting it would purely be his decision when he elects to walk away from his racing post.
Asked in Austin to address the mood within the Austrian outfit’s ranks, Verstappen said: “I saw that, from the outside, people were trying to basically talk some BS because I think the mood in the team is very good.
“Everyone knows exactly what their role is. And of course, [there were] sad times last year when Dietrich [Mateschitz, Red Bull founder] passed away [last October], but, you know, we’ve tried to keep that legacy, keep moving forward, and everyone that we have right now in the team is very important to that success that we’re having.”
“So that’s why there are also no changes for the future. I think that basically explains it.”
Sergio Perez added: “It’s just the same, everyone in Formula 1 has their own agenda – journalists, teams, they all want to create the best possible story out there.
“The team is in a great moment, Helmut is a very important part of the team, same as Christian, and I just think there are rumours around.”
Last time out in Qatar, Verstappen sealed his third consecutive Drivers’ title, securing it during Saturday’s Sprint race to be crowned with a record-equalling five rounds to spare.
The Dutchman later insisted that his mentality for the remaining races wouldn’t change as he targets adding to his current tally of 14 race wins in 2023, one shy of his benchmark number from last season.
“Well, I mean, looking at the season, yes, but it’s a Sprint weekend,” he said when asked about being labelled the favourite for this weekend’s race at the Circuit of the Americas.
“We have to nail FP1 to make sure that the cars working well for qualifying. So a bit early to say anything at the moment.”
Questioned on the celebrations that took place after wrapping up the championship, Verstappen responded: “Nothing major, just a little bit with friends. I mean it was also just nice to be home a little bit before heading into this tripleheader so nothing too crazy.”
